Every year, we eagerly await the arrival of new editions for our beloved operating system. The rollout of Android 14 has been ongoing for six months now, reaching a wide range of devices. Now, all eyes are on the upcoming Android 15, of which certain features have already been revealed.
Even though we still have about six months to wait before the release of the next version, it's expected to coincide with the launch of the Pixel 9 in the fall. However, little by little, details from beta versions and rumors have been emerging, building up anticipation that I can barely contain.
Widgets on the lock screen
Lock screen widgets have become a crucial feature of Android 14, receiving a refresh a couple of years ago alongside the introduction of Material You. However, the competition has scored a significant victory by extending these widgets to the lock screen. It's a functionality that our preferred operating system attempted before, albeit unsuccessfully.
Archiving apps instead of uninstalling them
The option to archive apps instead of uninstalling them isn't a new addition with Android 15, as this feature is already available on your mobile device. However, the manual implementation of this capability is still awaiting confirmation. Archiving apps introduces a new method for managing space; instead of uninstalling, it puts apps into a dormant state, greatly reducing their space usage.
When an app is archived, only the essential data is kept. Later, tapping on the app icon seamlessly reactivates the application, making it fully accessible again. While it might seem like a small improvement, it's particularly useful for phones with limited storage, providing an effective way to optimize space without permanently deleting apps.
A user-friendly approach for the less tech-savvy
Simplifying life for those who aren't as tech-savvy has long been a goal, with some customization layers offering a simplified or straightforward mode. This mode streamlines the interface, making it more user-friendly. It's an especially helpful feature for older individuals unfamiliar with smartphone complexities or in situations where prioritizing basic functions is preferred.
While alternatives like launchers exist, and some customization layers integrate such solutions, I, as a dedicated fan of the Google system, prefer native implementations.
Android 15 feature